Free Agent Market May End D.J. Augustin's Run With The Chicago Bulls

By Kristen Fazio

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NBA Free Agency has already seen many dominoes start to fall into place, and the market value may indicate the end for D.J. Augustin and his time with the Chicago Bulls.

With Jodie Meeks reportedly agreeing to a three-year, $19 million contract with the Detroit Pistons, Avery Bradley getting four years, $32 million to stay with the Boston Celtics and the Orlando Magic signing Ben Gordon to a two-year, $9 million deal it has become increasingly more difficult for the Bulls to re-sign Augustin with cap space already tight. The aforementioned players’ contracts raised quite a few eyebrows, and it would be hard to imagine Augustin commanding less than what Meeks got from the Pistons.

Although Augustin has stated he wants to stay in Chicago, he may have a hard time passing up a larger deal from another team after a breakout season with the Bulls. The Dallas Mavericks have registered interest in Augustin and have plenty of available salary-cap space.

Augustin revitalized his career with the Bulls, averaging 14.9 points and 5.0 assists while shooting 41.1 percent from three. He provided a scoring punch off the bench and had success running the pick-and-roll. He also showed his ability to handle the ball while creating his own shot and shots for his teammates.

Augustin, Kirk Hinrich and the rest of the Bulls’ free agents are currently in a holding pattern until Carmelo Anthony makes his decision. Once that chip falls, then the Bulls will be able to make the necessary moves to fill out their roster.